ORIGIN

Barely Broken In: 63K-Mile 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300SD

This 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300SD (VIN WDBCB20A3CB024490) looks beautifully preserved and is said to have 63k original miles. Fully stock apart from an aftermarket stereo head unit, the car presents really well in a dark olive green over tan leather, and the seller and claimed second owner says it’s been well maintained, further noting 27 MPG and full functionality excluding the clock, tach and visor lights. Like the ad notes, the OM617 five-cylinder diesel won’t make for quick acceleration, but at this mileage it’s likely just being broken in. Find it here on Craigslist near Milwaukee, Wisconsin for $11,900. Special thanks to BaT reader Jeff S. for this submission.

Full frame photos are a bit grainy, but well maintained exterior condition is still clear. The W126 S-Class has always been known for outstanding build quality, and tight gaps, consistent paint finish and nice trim suggest that this one’s been pampered. Common trouble areas like the corners of the bumpers and front air dam also look good, and wheels are a factory set of 15-hole light alloy bundts that seem to have clean finish.

A closeup shot of the rear model designation reveals clean paint finish. This color is called Cypress Green, and is very refreshing in contrast with the ubiquitous silver, gray and blue tones most often worn by the W126. The finish of trim also looks very nice, while light lenses and rubber portions of the bumpers don’t show any signs of weathering.

Palomino leather upholstery and carpeting line the interior along with rich wood trim that doesn’t show any cracks. The stereo has been changed to a modern Alpine deck with Bluetooth, and everything is said to work with the exception of the tachometer and clock in the gauge cluster and the vanity mirror lights in the sun visors. Seat heaters and climate control are mentioned, and the dash looks nice with no obvious deformation or cracks. The backseat isn’t photographed, but the VIN build sheet lists a center armrest-located fax machine.

The engine isn’t shown either, but it should be an OM617 3.0liter five, a version of the same unit that powered the W123 300D. As the seller notes, this is an engine that’s set a few mileage records. Specifics relating to upkeep aren’t given, but the seller assures that they’ve “replaced most every single part that even remotely needed replacing.”